Bangladesh Nationalist Party Claims Landmark Victory in Parliamentary Elections
Dhaka, Bangladesh – – The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is claiming a decisive victory in the country’s first parliamentary elections since the 2024 uprising, positioning itself to form the next government and potentially reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape.
Unofficial results released on indicate a strong lead for the BNP and its allies, with the party reportedly securing 181 seats out of 299 contested, alongside 61 seats won by Jamaat-e-Islami and its allies, according to the Times Now News. Vote counting has been completed in 249 constituencies, with results pending in the remaining 50.
The election marks a significant turning point for Bangladesh, particularly as it paves the way for Tarique Rahman, the chairman of the BNP, to potentially become the next prime minister. Rahman, the son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, spent 17 years in exile before returning to lead his party in this election. He has been unofficially declared elected from the Bogura-6 (Sadar) constituency, defeating his nearest rival, according to the Daily Star.
The victory comes after a period of intense political rivalry and disputed polls. The absence of the previously dominant Awami League, led by ousted premier Sheikh Hasina, created a direct contest between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. The Awami League was not permitted to contest in this election.
The BNP has announced that if its victory is confirmed, Rahman will assume the role of prime minister. This would make him Bangladesh’s first male prime minister in 35 years. Rahman attended an election rally on , signaling his commitment to leading the party and the nation. Images released by the Associated Press show Rahman casting his vote on , and waving to supporters.
The election process itself saw participation from various political figures, including Jamaat-e-Islami leader Shafiqur Rahman, who was photographed casting his vote on . Polling officials began counting votes immediately following the close of voting on .
Security was heightened around BNP offices in anticipation of the election results, with personnel guarding the chairman’s office, as reported by the Associated Press. The Election Commission (EC) has yet to make a formal announcement confirming the BNP’s victory, but the unofficial results strongly suggest a historic mandate for the party.
The outcome of this election is expected to have significant implications for Bangladesh’s future, potentially ushering in a new era of political leadership and policy direction. Analysts are already anticipating stronger ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh under a BNP-led government, according to Radio Pakistan.
